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Turf Transformation Partnership Program
California is phasing out irrigation of non-functional turf (grass) with drinking water.
Use your water where it matters most.
California is phasing out the use of drinking water on non-functional turf areas that serve no purpose beyond appearance. This change frees up limited water supplies for where they’re needed most: homes, businesses, and community spaces.
Prompted by Assembly Bill 1572 (AB 1572), this new statewide effort will help protect our shared water future while giving Western Water customers the chance to reimagine their outdoor spaces.
Prepare to phase out drinking-water irrigation for non-functional turf starting in January 2027.
Starting January 1, 2027, the use of drinking water for irrigating non-functional turf will be phased out in commercial, industrial, institutional, municipal, and homeowners' association (HOA) common areas. Western Water is here to help property owners and managers plan early, take advantage of rebates, and transform their landscapes into sustainable, water-wise spaces.
When does the change take effect?
- January 1, 2027 – Public/government properties
- January 1, 2028 – Commercial, industrial, and institutional properties
- January 1, 2029 – HOA common areas, mobile home parks, and retirement communities
- January 1, 2031 – Government properties in disadvantaged communities
What is non-functional turf?
- Parking lot or roadway islands/medians.
- Business frontage or entryways.
- HOA common areas that aren’t used for walking or activities.
What’s NOT affected?
The law does not apply to:
- Residential lawns.
- Sports fields, playgrounds, or pet exercise areas.
- Cemeteries or picnic areas.
Any grass watered with recycled water.
Western Water is here to help you transform your landscape with support and savings.
- Rebates help cover the cost of removing non-functional grass and replacing it with water-wise landscaping or efficient irrigation systems, a win for your budget and the environment.
- Western Water provides project management, design guidance, and hands-on support with the SoCal Water $mart Turf Replacement Rebate application process.
- Planning now gives you time to design a landscape you’ll love, while making the best use of your water where it matters most.
- View all of the rebates and programs available and get started now.
What is the reason behind the new rules?
California continues to face serious drought and long-term water supply challenges. Decorative turf uses a significant amount of water without serving a purpose. AB 1572 helps communities like ours transition to more sustainable landscaping choices, utilizing less water while maintaining attractive spaces. Switching to a water-wise landscape helps:
- Conserve drinking water for health and safety.
- Protect our local and regional water supply.
- Support statewide efforts on climate change and drought.
- Show leadership and care for the community we all share.
What are the reporting requirements for properties and HOAs?
The State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) is now converting the AB 1572 legislation into enforceable regulations. The regulations are expected to be completed before Jan. 1, 2027.
CII properties with more than 5,000 square feet of irrigated turf will be required to self-certify to the SWRCB every three years beginning June 30, 2030.
HOA properties with more than 5,000 square feet of irrigated turf will be required to self-certify to the SWRCB every three years beginning June 30, 2031.
More information and resources
- Learn more about AB 1572 through the official statewide resource at nonfunctionalturfca.org.
- Explore additional context about AB 1572 at CalMatters.
- View our Landscape with Style guidebook.
- Apply for rebates through Western Water’s Commercial Turf Replacement Rebate Program.
- Find water-saving tips at WesternWaterCA.gov/savewater.
Not sure if your turf is considered functional? Western Water’s Water Use Efficiency team is here to help. For support, contact us via email.